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11.29.2009

Food Review: Five Guys Burgers and Fries

On our way to see The Boondock Saints II: All Saints Day at the AMC 30 at Easton Mall, Matt and I decided to have dinner at Five Guys Burgers and Fries, a franchise that has about 400 locations all over the nation. I figured that this would be another "burger joint," but with the taste of In-N-Out still not too far in my memory, it would be hard to upstage that distinct taste. However, this restaurant does make its own case and point for flavor and freshness, shown by its following in the Eastern US.

This particular store was busy today because of the start of the holiday shopping season, but we were served in a timely manner by a friendly host. The menu selection here was very reminiscent of the standard burger place, with two sizes of burgers (one or two patties of fresh, not frozen, beef) along with the option of having bacon added to the burger as well. In addition, topping choices were very similar to that of the Fatburger chain, with options ranging from ketchup, mustard, and mayo to BBQ sauce to A-1, grilled onions, and grilled mushrooms, all added at no additional charge. As for the fries, they were cut of a medium thickness from fresh potatoes trucked in from Idaho and cut in the store. Their fries included the option of being done "cajun style" in which the fries would be served with a spicy coating. I ordered the large bacon cheeseburger with mayo, lettuce, tomato, extra grilled onions, and grilled mushrooms and a small side of regular fries for my test.

Overall, the food was quite impressive for the price (It was about $9 for a bacon burger, small fries, and a drink). The burger was very well done and the fries were crisp and salted just enough to bring out the flavor. All the ingredients were fresh, the beef was juicy and flavorful, and the toppings and sauces blended well with each other with every bite, all the way down to the bits of bacon. However, as much as this burger really exemplified quality, it still missed an indescribable sense of distinction that a burger from In-N-Out possesses. Perhaps it was the lack of a unique spread or the recipe that made the burger buns, but nevertheless, Five Guys Burgers and Fries is definitely worth experimenting with.

And guess what! They're in CA. If anyone wants to give this burger place a shot, here are two locations in and near the OC and LA. I'm curious to know what you think.